Rediff.com
 
Mumbai, Mar 11: West Indian great Brian Lara will miss out on the Edelweiss 20s Challenge of the Indian Cricket League because of an injury in his left forearm.

Former Kiwi opener Nathan Astle will replace Lara as the captain of the Mumbai Champs team.

"Unfortunately Brian is injured and will not be able to take guard, so Nathan Astle has already taken charge of the side. Brian had a word with the boys and the mood in the camp is positive," Mumbai Champs coach Sandeep Patil said.

Danny Redrup, Physiotherapist of Mumbai Champs, said, "Lara was hit on his left forearm when playing for Trinidad and Tobago six weeks ago. He sustained a substantial distal ulna fracture which in some cases requires surgery."

"He was placed in a cast for five and a half weeks. On re-xray in Delhi, his fracture is showing slow but well-aligned healing. Due to the extent of the structural damage, Brian is still in significant discomfort while holding the bat. Another two to four weeks will be required for appropriate healing to facilitate some batting practice. Hence he would not be able to play in this tournament," Redrup said.